Incidents of drink-fuelled violence increased by only 0.02 per cent across the West Midlands force area since relaxed new licensing laws which came into force a year ago, new figures reveal.

Statistics for violence against the person involving alcohol rose from 4,962 in the year up to October 2005, to 4,981 offences in the 12 months up to last October – an increase of just 19 offences.

Police and licensing officials said partnership working in Birmingham's entertainment district had helped to stabilise the number of offences.

The police figures were released as it emerged that 3,000 premises nationally now have licences to serve alcohol round-the-clock.

But Licensing Minister Shaun Woodward said said the new licensing laws had not created a 24-hour drinking culture.

Four out of five pubs, bars and clubs still close by 1am at the latest, according to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Mr Woodward said the Government would continue to monitor the impact of the new licensing laws.

Superintendent Debbie Harrod, from the central Birmingham operational command unit (OCU), said the city's 'Golden Mile' had not witnessed a dramatic increase in alcohol-related violence because officers had built close relationships with venues. Broad Street attracts 50,000 visitors on a typical weekend night.

Supt Harrod said: "Working with partner agencies under our BeSafe campaign, we have made real inroads into tackling crime and anti-social behaviour. We have excellent collaborative working between the different agencies, tackling issues from a range of angles.

"For example, both the police and door supervisors are encouraged to adopt a firm but fair 'no nonsense' approach, addressing anti-social behaviour before it develops into more serious problems."

Mike Olley, manager of the Broad Street Business Improvement District, said initiatives rolled out on the bar and club district include high visibility door supervisors and environmental improvements.

He said: "For example, we have introduced lots of Christmas trees with decorations along the street to try and give it a softer, less sterile feel."

Coun David Osborne (Lib Dem South Yardley), chairman of the council's licensing committee, said: "We have successfully ensured all of our premises are covered by the Act and the city has not experienced the negative effects that many predicted would occur."

New rules giving licensed premises in England and Wales the chance to open round-the-clock came into force overnight between November 23 and 24 last year

- Supermarkets make up a quarter of the premises granted 24-hour licences under the new Licensing Act

- Pubs, bars and clubs make up 20 per cent of the total while convenience stores make up another 20 per cent

- The remaining 35 per cent covers all other premises including hotels

- About one fifth of pubs, bars and clubs close by 11pm, rising to 50 per cent by midnight and 80 per cent by 1am at the latest